Geelong and surrounding communities deserve the opportunity to host the Opening Ceremony of regional Victoria's 2026 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne.
Regional communities were the driving force behind the games bid and now should be supported to bring new events, attractions and tourism to recover and rebuild.
With outstanding local tourism and hospitality sectors and the world-class GMHBA Stadium, Geelong is uniquely positioned to host a successful Opening Ceremony.
Leader of the Opposition, Matthew Guy, said regional Victoria deserves to host the opening of regional Victoria's Commonwealth Games.
"There is no better choice to kick off regional Victoria's Commonwealth Games than in the largest stadium outside of Melbourne," Mr Guy said.
"If Daniel Andrews doesn't re-think this decision, a Matthew Guy Liberals and Nationals Government will relocate the Opening Ceremony to Geelong."
Shadow Minister for Sport, Cindy McLeish, said a Geelong Opening Ceremony would showcase regional Victoria and boost local sport, tourism and hospitality sectors.
"The Andrews Labor Government is missing a golden opportunity to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony in Geelong," Ms McLeish said.
"Instead of launching the regional games in our capital city – let's take this chance to put Geelong and all it has to offer on the world stage."
